VC Leader Anu Adebajo: Defying Advice to Temper Ambition Led to Success
Anu Adebajo, the CEO of Newton Venture Program, has carved a remarkable path in London's competitive venture capital landscape. In a candid interview, she reveals how ignoring advice to temper her ambitions proved pivotal to her career trajectory, from her early days in Nigeria to leading a top UK executive education initiative.
From Nigeria to the Square Mile: A Journey of Resilience
Born in Ibadan, Nigeria, Adebajo, now 38, moved to London and built a career that spans roles as a partner at Atomico and senior investment manager at British Patient Capital. Her first permanent City role was as an analyst at the Angel Co Fund, where she developed a passion for early-stage investing. "It confirmed my love for early stage investing and started my interest in the funds behind the companies," she recalls, noting this focus has shaped her entire career.
After 4.5 years in direct investing, she spent seven years as an LP investor into venture capital funds before taking the helm at Newton Venture Program. The organization trains aspiring venture talent from diverse backgrounds, allowing Adebajo to combine her investment expertise with a commitment to inclusivity.
Defying Conventional Wisdom: The Power of Ambition
Adebajo shares that one of the worst pieces of career advice she received came from a senior woman she admired. "To temper my ambitions," she recounts, referring to guidance given when she was planning her VC career and targeting firms. "I'm glad I didn't listen!" This defiance has fueled her rise, enabling her to use her influence as an LP to drive positive changes in the venture ecosystem.
Her proudest moments include advocating for junior team development and calling out unacceptable behavior toward female founders and investment professionals. "The times I've used my power and influence as an LP to make real changes in the venture ecosystem," she emphasizes, highlighting her impact beyond financial metrics.
London Life: Contrasts and Community
Living in Canary Wharf, Adebajo appreciates the area's security and convenience, noting its growing residential buzz. She loves the City's architectural diversity, from modern buildings near Liverpool Street to historic landmarks like St Paul's. However, as a self-described "proud northerner," she misses the friendliness of strangers, wishing she could "transport the northern friendliness here."
On weekends, she explores London, embraces social invites, and attends reformer pilates studios. For well-deserved breaks, she enjoys solo trips, such as driving down the west coast of the USA, and is currently exploring the world's rivieras.
Business Insights and Personal Touches
Adebajo's career is marked by memorable moments, including a business lunch where she finally met Wol Kolade of Livingbridge, whom she had cold-emailed years earlier. She also recalls a humorous faux pas involving a mistaken text about a promotion, which left her too embarrassed to clarify.
Her inspirations include family members like her grandmother, one of Nigeria's first female broadcasters, and her grandfather, the first non-expat executive director of Dunlop Nigeria. Adebajo's motto, "To whom much is given, much is expected," reflects her drive to give back.
Looking Ahead with Optimism
Despite current uncertainties in venture capital fundraising and exits, Adebajo remains optimistic. "Venture Capital is in a holding pattern," she acknowledges, "but from experience, it's times like this where creativity happens and the biggest opportunities emerge." At Newton, she is "dreaming big" to maximize impact on the ecosystem.
Her preferences reveal a blend of sophistication and practicality: skipping coffee for matcha, favoring spicy margaritas at Los Mochis, and choosing Yauatcha for dim sum lunches. As a fiction enthusiast, she recommends "Chain-Gang All-Stars" by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah for its creativity and thought-provoking narrative.
Anu Adebajo's story underscores the value of perseverance and boldness in the fast-paced world of venture capital, serving as an inspiration for aspiring investors everywhere.
